Section 11 - Tips for Taking the Test

Sight Translation

Use your preparation time wisely. Do not try to translate the entire text. Use this time to get a general idea of the type and content of the text, identify the main points, pinpoint potential problems, and write down any equivalents that come to mind.

Try to maintain an even pace as you sight translate.

Avoid long pauses between sentences.

Oral Recall

To do well in this exercise, you need to be able to listen attentively and remember what you hear in order to reproduce the message.

Note:
Use the oral recall exercises and similar materials to help you develop your attention span and memory as suggested in Section 6

Consecutive Dialogue

You should take note of names, dates and numbers as you listen, as you may not be able to remember them when it is your turn to repeat. However, do not let note-taking interfere with careful listening.

Your repetition should reflect the tone and style of the speaker. If the speaker uses colloquial language, you should do the same. If the speaker is hesitant, you should also sound hesitant.

Shadowing

While you are expected to shadow at virtually the same time as the speaker is speaking, you have to wait to hear a few words from the speaker before you can start shadowing. You will therefore constantly be a few words behind the speaker. However, try not to get too far behind.

You may take note of names, dates and numbers during this exercise. However, remember that you will have very little time to do so, as you will be shadowing at the same time as the speaker is speaking. You may be better off relying on your memory.

In shadowing, as in the consecutive dialogue, your shadowing should reflect the tone and style of the speaker.

Consecutive Interpreting

You should take note of names, dates and numbers as you listen, as you may not be able to remember them when it is your turn to interpret. However, do not let note-taking interfere with careful listening.

Your interpretation should reflect the tone and style of the speaker. If the speaker uses familiar language, you should do the same. If the speaker is hesitant, you should also sound hesitant.